Shields Class News

Request for Discussion and Comment

The Shields Class Sailing Association is organized and runs under their Class Rules (aka "Bluebook"). The Rules underwent a major re-write in 1999 and in the last couple of years the Rules have been put onto the Class web site. The latest version of the Class Rules include a number of minor revisions and corrections. Changes since the 1999 version also include the Mast Step rule and changes to Rules for the National Championship Regatta. Changes to the National Championship Regatta included changes to scoring to put it in line with RRS, allowing up to eight races for the national regatta and allowing shortening of course under certain circumstances.

One area in the Class Rules that are over-due for changes is the Constitution (Section I) and By-Laws (Sections II and VI). Please see discussion of proposed changes to the Constitution and Bylaws.

All members are invited to consider the proposed changes, make comments and to either attend the member meeting (Chicago, September 16-19, 2009) or send in a proxy.

The Tacktick compass is now allowed for Shields racing. On October 15, 2008 the membership passed the following rule change: Compass: A working compass must be on board at all times. A self-contained electronic compass without wind shift indications is allowed. The use of a built-in timer and "tactical" display mode can be used. The Tacktick model T060 Micro Compass with brackets is approved.

On December 4, 2008 objections to the membership meeting and its process were rejected by the Governing Board. The rule change is affirmed.

Cape Cod Shipbuilding has come up with a mounting for the compass that works with the strap bracket. The sailslide mount is basically a 1/2" diameter x 3" aluminum slug that slides into the sailgroove in the mast and when the 3 fastenings are tightened to a strap bracket they hold the bracket snug to the mast. Its cost is $20.00 plus tax and shipping (if applicable) and does not include the strap bracket.

The objects of the Association are to promote Corinthian racing of Shields Class yachts and to maintain the one-design character thereof as sponsored by Cornelius Shields and designed by Sparkman & Stephens, Inc.